Oleksandr Syrskyi, the former Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces of Ukraine, has been a pivotal figure in Ukraine's military landscape. Known for his operational-tactical prowess, he faced criticism at the strategic level, especially with his recent dismissal which drew public attention. Amid protests supporting former Defence Minister Mykhailo Fedorov, Syrskyi's leadership was under scrutiny. President Zelenskyy's reshuffling of military leadership, including appointing Mykhailo Drapatyi as his replacement, marks a significant shift. The series of personnel changes highlights the complexities in Ukraine's defense strategies as it navigates both internal conflicts and external pressures.
What are Oleksandr Syrskyi's strengths in military command?
Oleksandr Syrskyi is recognized for his abilities in planning and conducting offensive operations. However, there are noted shortcomings in his strategic capabilities, specifically in the context of commanding the Armed Forces of Ukraine on a broader, more strategic level. This balance of skills had implications during his tenure and in the recent reshuffle of military leadership.
Why was Oleksandr Syrskyi dismissed from his position?
The dismissal of Oleksandr Syrskyi as Commander-in-Chief can be attributed to a combination of internal political factors and public pressure. His strategic approaches and leadership during ongoing conflicts, as well as his contentious relationship with the former defence minister, factored into the decision. The shift is part of a broader governmental restructuring to enhance the military's effectiveness.
How does the public perceive the changes in Ukraine's military leadership?
Public opinion is divided regarding the recent personnel changes in Ukraine's military leadership. While a significant portion supported Oleksandr Syrskyi's dismissal, a larger majority opposed the resignation of former Defence Minister Fedorov, sparking widespread protests. These demonstrations underscore the public's involvement and concern over military and governmental reforms.
Who replaced Oleksandr Syrskyi as Commander-in-Chief?
Mykhailo Drapatyi was appointed as the new Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces of Ukraine, following Oleksandr Syrskyi's dismissal. Drapatyi's appointment is seen as a significant move in reshaping Ukraine's military command, reflecting both internal strategic changes and responses to public sentiment regarding defense leadership.
What factors contribute to the strategic challenges faced by Ukraine's armed forces?
Ukraine's armed forces face strategic challenges due to ongoing external aggression and internal political dynamics. Leadership transitions, such as the recent replacement of Oleksandr Syrskyi, indicate attempts to strengthen military strategies. These challenges are compounded by the need for effective operational tactics and robust defense policies to counter ongoing threats.
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Book on Kharkiv offensive operation presented in Kyiv. PHOTO To mark the anniversary of the de-occupation of the Kharkiv region, the Museum of the History of Ukraine in the Second World War hosted the launch of the book "The Kharkiv Offensive Operation 2022". 1 461 2
Major-General Skybiuk will become new Chief of General Staff of Armed Forces of Ukraine – Zelenskyy. PHOTO President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has announced that Major General Ihor Skybiuk will become the new Chief of the General Staff of the Armed Forces of Ukraine. 8 869 16
Protests for Fedorov’s return and Syrskyi’s resignation continue in Kyiv and other cities for fifth day. VIDEO&PHOTOS On Monday evening, 20 July, Ukrainians took to the streets in several cities for the fifth time to protest against the resignation of former Defence Minister Mykhailo Fedorov. 4 622 87 Previously in trend: Fedorov’s resignation Syrskyi dismissal
"Bring Fedorov back, sack Syrskyi": protests enter their fourth day in Kyiv, Lviv and other cities. VIDEO&PHOTOS On the evening of Sunday, 19 July, people gathered once again in Kyiv and Lviv to protest, demanding that Mykhailo Fedorov be reinstated as Minister of Defence. There are also calls for Oleksandr Syrskyi to be dismissed from his post as Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces of Ukraine. 5 930 51 Previously in trend: Fedorov’s resignation Syrskyi dismissal
"Fedorov = future", "Syrskyi out": third day of protests is taking place in Lviv. PHOTOS On the evening of 18 July, another protest is taking place in Lviv against the dismissal of Defence Minister Mykhailo Fedorov. The people of Lviv are also calling for Oleksandr Syrskyi to be removed from his post as Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces of Ukraine. 2 949 26 Previously in trend: Fedorov’s resignation Syrskyi dismissal
Syrskyi in Oleksandrivka sector: Drones, logistics, and preserving soldiers’ lives are priorities. PHOTOS Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces of Ukraine Oleksandr Syrskyi visited combat units in the Oleksandrivka sector, where he inspected the performance of combat missions and troop supplies and spoke with commanders. 2 244 20 Previously in trend: Fighting in the Oleksandrivka direction
Syrskyi and Norwegian Chief of Defence Kristoffersen visit Ukrainian troops in south. PHOTOS Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces of Ukraine Oleksandr Syrskyi, together with Chief of Defence of the Kingdom of Norway General Eirik Kristoffersen, visited military command bodies, separate air assault and assault units carrying out combat missions to repel the armed aggression of the... 2 169 6 Previously in trend: Syrskyi briefing Conversation between Syrskyi and Kristofferson
Intensive fighting ongoing in Oleksandrivka direction – Syrskyi. PHOTOS The Oleksandrivka direction remains one of the hottest areas of the front. Commander-in-Chief of Ukraine’s Armed Forces Oleksandr Syrskyi made another working visit to this area of combat operations. 1 111 3 Previously in trend: Fighting in the Oleksandrivka direction
Syrskyi inspected training of soldiers of 225th Assault Regiment. PHOTOS During a working visit, Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces of Ukraine Oleksandr Syrskyi visited the 225th Separate Assault Regiment and familiarized himself with the training program for service members. 3 626 11 Previously in trend: Training of infantrymen Training of soldiers in brigades
Syrskyi discussed situation in Southern-Slobozhanskyi sector with Khartiia command. PHOTOS Commander-in-Chief of Ukraine’s Armed Forces Oleksandr Syrskyi visited the 2nd Corps of the National Guard of Ukraine, Khartiia, which is conducting defensive operations in the Southern-Slobozhanskyi direction. 1 127 2 Previously in trend: Fighting in the Kupіansk direction
Layered air defense and aviation neutralize over 50% of enemy drones, says Syrskyi. PHOTOS Commander-in-Chief of Ukraine’s Armed Forces Oleksandr Syrskyi held another working meeting on increasing the capabilities of Ukraine’s Defense Forces in countering Russian strike UAVs. 2 278 3 Previously in trend: Critical infrastructure protection Anti-drone protection Logistics route protection
NATO and EU coordinate support for Ukraine: focus on air defence and logistics – Syrskyi. PHOTOS Commander-in-Chief of Ukraine’s Armed Forces Oleksandr Syrskyi held a meeting with the chairs of the NATO and European Union military committees, Admiral Giuseppe Cavo Dragone and General Seán Clancy. 1 375 8 Previously in trend: Situation at front Cooperation between Ukraine and NATO
Syrskyi visited Southern Operational Zone: Enemy is reinforcing its forces and seeks to turn tide of fighting. PHOTO During his latest working visit to the Southern Operational Zone, Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces of Ukraine Oleksandr Syrskyi held a meeting with the command staff of military command structures, military units, and subunits involved in carrying out combat missions to repel the armed... 2 677 14 Previously in trend: Hostilities in south
Syrskyi visited units in Pokrovsk direction: they discussed countering FPV drones. PHOTOS In the Pokrovsk sector, Russian forces are maintaining a high intensity of assaults: Ukrainian defenders repelled 260 attacks last week alone. The command is working with units to strengthen countermeasures, particularly against enemy FPV drones. 1 458 9 Previously in trend: Situation in the Pokrovsk direction Countering Russian drones
We are making adjustments to training content regarding fight against enemy UAVs, – Syrskyi. PHOTO The Ukrainian Armed Forces are adapting military training to modern warfare conditions, with a focus on countering enemy drones, technological capabilities and the safety of the training process. 1 656 9 Previously in trend: basic military training
AFU are expanding their network of underground medical stations and require more armoured personnel carriers for the evacuation of the wounded, – Syrskyi. PHOTOS Commander-in-Chief Oleksandr Syrskyi heard reports on the performance of military medics’ duties in March during a monthly working meeting. The discussion focused on ways to resolve issues relating to the evacuation of wounded servicemen, an analysis of injury types, morbidity rates within... 2 668 11 Previously in trend: Tactical medicine Evacuation of the wounded Military medicine
Air Force of Armed Forces of Ukraine has established Command of Direct Air Defence Forces to combat "shaheds", - Syrskyi. PHOTOS Commander-in-Chief Oleksandr Syrskyi has stated that the Armed Forces of Ukraine are developing new, effective methods to counter enemy attack drones. 3 627 27 Previously in trend: Modernization of the Ukrainian air defense system
Syrskyi presents awards to fighters of assault and air assault units in Southern Operational Zone. PHOTOS During a working trip to the Southern operational zone, Commander-in-Chief Oleksandr Syrskyi presented honorary badges to Ukrainian servicemen from assault and air assault units. 1 943 5 Previously in trend: Awarding awards to military
Sergeant training and anti-drone drills: Syrskyi chairs meeting on military training. PHOTOS General Oleksandr Syrskyi held a meeting on the quality of training for servicemen of the Armed Forces of Ukraine. During the discussion, they reviewed the state of training for platoon commanders, the work of the network of sergeant colleges, and additional training measures for military... 2 078 9 Previously in trend: Training of soldiers in brigades
AFU strengthen active defense: Syrskyi meets with leadership of Azov and 7th Air Assault Corps. PHOTOS The command of the Armed Forces of Ukraine conducted work at forward positions within the areas of responsibility of the Azov Corps and the 7th Rapid Response Corps of the Air Assault Forces. 3 928 14 Previously in trend: Defense Situation at front
During his work in Eastern direction, Syrskyi presented awards to service members. PHOTOS During his work in the Eastern direction, the Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces of Ukraine awarded servicemembers for courage, professionalism, and resilience on the most difficult sections of the front. Since the start of the full-scale invasion, nearly 230,000 defenders of Ukraine have... 1 523 2 Previously in trend: Awarding awards to military Honouring Armed Forces of Ukraine with awards
Russian army losses in January exceeded reinforcements by 9,000 – Syrskyi. PHOTOS In January, the Armed Forces of Ukraine stabilized the situation on the front line, inflicting significant losses on the enemy in terms of manpower and equipment. Over the course of the month, the Russian army lost 31,700 soldiers, exceeding its reinforcements by approximately 9,000 personnel. 2 297 19 Previously in trend: Elimination of Russian occupiers Striking Russia
We are increasing unmanned component of assault troops and Territorial Defence Forces, - Syrskyi. PHOTOS Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces of Ukraine Oleksandr Syrskyi said that Ukraine continues to expand its drone units and implement new technological solutions. 2 079 15 Previously in trend: Syrskyi briefing
Strengthening defenses and preserving soldiers’ lives: Syrskyi meets with combat unit commanders. PHOTOS Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces of Ukraine Oleksandr Syrskyi held a working meeting with commanders of military units directly carrying out combat missions at the front. 2 107 16 Previously in trend: Situation at front
Security guarantees, pressure on Russia and military aid to Ukraine: Syrskyi took part in meeting of commanders-in-chief of Coalition of Willing. PHOTO Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces of Ukraine Oleksandr Syrskyi took part in a regular meeting of commanders-in-chief of the armed forces of the member states of the"Coalition of the Willing," which was held via video conference. 3 877 9 Previously in trend: Security guarantees for Ukraine meeting of the coalition of the willing
Syrskyi on first year of AFU first medical battalion: full staffing, 100 km of frontline, and lives saved. PHOTOS Over the past year, the 1st Separate Medical Battalion of the Armed Forces of Ukraine (AFU) has completed the full path of development, from formation and personnel training to systematic work directly in the combat zone, providing medical coverage for about 100 kilometers of the frontline. 3 397 3 Previously in trend: 1st Separate Medical Battalion of the Armed Forces of Ukraine Military medicine
More than 33,000 occupiers were neutralised by Armed Forces’ USF units in month, according to Syrskyi. PHOTOS In December 2025, unmanned systems units of Ukraine’s Defense Forces neutralized more than 33,000 servicemen of Russia’s occupation army, which roughly corresponds to Russia’s monthly mobilization intake. 1 557 15 Previously in trend: Unmanned technologies
Russia is demonstrating its unwillingness to stop war and is deliberately continuing its offensive actions, - Syrskyi. PHOTO Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces of Ukraine General Oleksandr Syrskyi met with a French military delegation led by Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces of France General Fabien Mandon. 1 283 9
Armed Forces of Ukraine are successfully counterattacking and inflicting significant losses on Russian troops, - Syrskyi Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces of Ukraine Oleksandr Syrskyi held a working meeting with a British delegation led by Chief of the Defence Staff of the United Kingdom Air Chief Marshal Richard Knighton. 3 980 15 Previously in trend: Battles in the east of Ukraine Elimination of Russian occupiers
Russian Federation cannot increase its forces, and Armed Forces of Ukraine are eliminating up to thousand occupiers every day, - Syrskyi. PHOTOS During a meeting to review the activities of the Armed Forces of Ukraine over the previous month, Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces of Ukraine Oleksandr Syrskyi reported that the operational situation remains difficult. The enemy is conducting offensive operations along virtually the entire... 5 679 84 Previously in trend: Syrskyi briefing
Syrskyi: In Pokrovsk and Ocheretyne directions, Ukrainian troops continue inflicting heavy losses on enemy. PHOTO In the Pokrovsk and Ocheretyne directions, Ukrainian defenders continue inflicting heavy losses on Russian forces in manpower and equipment, restricting their movements. 2 687 8 Previously in trend: Combat operations in the Pokrovsk direction Fightings in the Zaporizhzhia direction
Pokrovsk - we are holding. Myrnohrad - we are holding. There is no encirclement or blockade of cities, - Syrskyi. PHOTO Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces of Ukraine Oleksandr Syrskyi visited the front line again. 9 886 67 Previously in trend: Combat operations in the Pokrovsk direction
Syrskyi visited Pokrovsk direction: set tasks to strengthen defences and awarded soldiers. PHOTOS Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces of Ukraine Oleksandr Syrskyi met with commanders of army corps, brigades, and military units performing combat missions in the Pokrovsk sector and directly in the area of the city of Pokrovsk. 20 050 60 Previously in trend: Syrskyi on the Donetsk region
Situation in Yampil area has stabilised, and elimination of remaining sabotage groups is ongoing, - Syrskyi. PHOTOS Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces of Ukraine Oleksandr Syrskyi worked in the military command and control bodies and military units operating in the Dobropillia, Siversk and Lyman directions. 3 108 13 Previously in trend: Situation in Dobropillia direction
Zelenskyy: 168.8 sq km liberated during Dobropillia counteroffensive operation. PHOTO President Volodymyr Zelenskyy held a meeting with the military. 2 845 10 Previously in trend: Fighting in the east Hostilities in south Fighting in the Kupіansk direction
Syrskyi visits Pokrovsk and Dobropillia directions: Finding effective ways to neutralize Russian marines. PHOTOS Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces of Ukraine Oleksandr Syrskyi has paid a working visit to the Pokrovsk and Dobropillia directions. 2 344 23 Previously in trend: Situation in the Pokrovsk direction Situation in Dobropillia direction
Situation on front line and at border, creation of reserves, security guarantees: Zelenskyy held meeting with military. PHOTO President Volodymyr Zelenskyy held a meeting with Commander-in-Chief Oleksandr Syrskyi and the military. 1 434 12 Previously in trend: Zelenskyy meets with
Syrskyi visited Pokrovsk direction: awarded soldiers and discussed issues of additional supplies. PHOTOS I work in the combat areas. The Pokrovsk direction is where it is most difficult. Where the defence of Ukrainian Independence and the Ukrainian Flag are not just lofty words, but a daily risk and a daily feat. 2 269 6 Previously in trend: Syrskyi on the Donetsk region
Kellogg met with Umierov and listened to briefing by Budanov and Syrskyi. PHOTOS On Monday, 14 July, while on a visit to Kyiv, US Special Representative Keith Kellogg met with the head of the Ministry of Defence of Ukraine Rustem Umierov and heard reports from the head of the Defence Intelligence of Ukraine Kyrylo Budanov and the Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces of... 4 341 12 Previously in trend: Kellogg’s visit to Kyiv
Russians are trying to overwhelm Kharkiv region with numbers. About dozen battles are taking place every day - Syrskyi. PHOTO Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces of Ukraine Oleksandr Syrskyi visited the units of the Armed Forces of Ukraine that are currently confronting the Russian occupiers in the Kharkiv region. 1 467 15 Previously in trend: Hostilities in Kharkiv region
Situation in Sumy region is stable. We repelled Andriivka and advanced 200 to 700 metres in Yunakivka - Syrskyi At one time, our Kursk operation drew back almost 63,000 Russian troops, and together with the DPRK troops, about 70,000. 8 201 56 Previously in trend: Russian assault on the Sumy region border
Since beginning of year, Defence Forces have destroyed 1,159 occupiers’ tanks and 2,510 occupiers’ armoured combat vehicles, according to Syrskyi. VIDEO Ukrainian soldiers continue to destroy the enemy and its equipment. 774 5 Previously in trend: Destruction of Russian equipment
Defence forces have stabilised situation in Pokrovsk direction and in some places have seized tactical initiative, - Syrskyi. PHOTO The Pokrovsk direction is one of the most difficult sections of the Russian-Ukrainian war front. 3 503 13 Previously in trend: Russian assault on Pokrovsk direction Situation in the Pokrovsk direction
Operation in Kursk has achieved most of its objectives. Buffer zone remains relevant today, - Syrskyi. PHOTOS During the working visit, Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces of Ukraine Oleksandr Syrskyi awarded our soldiers who distinguished themselves during the Kursk operation. 4 568 41 Previously in trend: Combat operations in the Kursk region UAF operation in the Kursk region
Enemy is trying to push us out of Kursk region and seize border areas of Sumy region – Syrskyi. PHOTO Intense fighting is currently taking place in Sumy region in areas near the state border and in the Russian Federation. 2 684 8 Previously in trend: Fighting in Kursk and Sumy regions
Defense Forces liberated around 16 km² near Pokrovsk – Syrskyi. PHOTO Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces of Ukraine Oleksandr Syrskyi visited the operational area of the OTG (Operational-Tactical Group) Donetsk. In recent weeks, Ukraine’s Defense Forces have liberated approximately 16 square kilometers of territory near the settlements of Udachne, Kotlyne, and... 3 423 5 Previously in trend: Fighting in the east Combat operations in the Pokrovsk direction
French and British Chiefs of Staff Burkhardt and Radakin meet with Zelenskyy, Umerov, and Syrskyi. PHOTOS The Chief of Staff of the French Armed Forces, General Thierry Burkhardt, and his UK counterpart, Admiral Anthony Radakin, met with President Volodymyr Zelenskyy, Defence Minister Rustem Umerov, and the Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces, Oleksandr Syrskyi, in Kyiv. 1 763 19 Previously in trend: foreign peacekeepers
Syrskyi visited positions of "Khartiia" fighters in Kharkiv direction: Enemy does not stop attempts to assault. PHOTO Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces of Ukraine Oleksandr Syrskyi made a working visit to the defence line of the 13th Operational Brigade of the National Guard "Khartiia" in the Kharkiv direction. 1 545 11 Previously in trend: Hostilities in Kharkiv region
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